'The Second Fifty'

“Exhaustively researched and deeply intimate.” —Joseph F. Coughlin, founder of the MIT AgeLab and author of The Longevity Economy

As she approached her 50th birthday, Debra Whitman, a globally recognized expert on aging, wanted to delve deeper into why so many Americans struggle to live well as they age. And she began to wonder what was in store for her own second 50. Suddenly, the questions she’d been studying for years became personal: How long will I live? Will I be healthy? Will I lose my memory? How long will I work? Will I have enough money? Where will I live? How will I die?

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Americans are now living decades longer than in previous generations. These added years offer exciting possibilities but also raise crucial questions. In her groundbreaking book, Whitman provides a road map for navigating, and celebrating, the second half of life. Drawing on compelling stories from her own family and people across the country, interviews with experts, and cutting-edge research, she shares insights on longevity, brain health, financial planning, work, housing and the value of relationships and social engagement. Her findings are often surprising: Americans over 50 are a boon to — not a drain on — the economy. Dementia rates have actually been declining as more people achieve higher levels of education and adopt healthier lifestyles. And while we’ve long known that staying connected to others is critical to mental health, it turns out it is also linked to a stronger immune system, lower blood pressure and a longer life.

Whitman presents practical steps we can take to help create a better second 50 for ourselves. But we can’t do it alone. Whitman also calls for urgently needed changes that would make it easier for every American to enjoy a vital and meaningful second half of life.

Whether you are approaching 50, into your later years or caring for someone who is, you’ll find a wealth of wisdom in these pages. Informed by Whitman’s unmatched expertise and her deep passion, The Second Fifty is an indispensable guide for living well in the 21st century.

Debra Whitman is AARP’s chief public policy officer and the former staff director for the Senate Special Committee on Aging. She holds a doctorate in economics from Syracuse University and lives in Maryland.

Editorial Reviews

"A compelling case that we must care for ourselves – all those healthy habits – but we don’t age alone. We have to muster our collective will and care about each other." —Jason Karlawish, MD, author of The Problem of Alzheimer's

“The most important book you can read on longevity and aging, The Second Fifty combines groundbreaking science, keen policy insights and practical recommendations to help us take control of our new longevity.” —Laura Tamblyn Watts, author of Let’s Talk About Aging Parents

“In this thoroughly illuminating and beautifully written book, Debra Whitman shows us why she is our preeminent expert on aging policy — and one of our wisest guides to navigating the years beyond fifty with purpose, connection and joy.” —Marc Freedman, author of How to Live Forever

 “The Second Fifty speaks directly to our biggest worries about growing old with vital information about how we and those we love can meet the aging process with more grace and wisdom. Beautifully written and a great read!” —Robert J Waldinger, coauthor of The Good Life

“Both a must-read for diverse individuals of all ages and backgrounds and a playbook for policymakers committed to making the second fifty years of Americans’ lives better.” —Lisa Berkman, author of Overtime

“Tackles the big questions we are all afraid to ask about aging with warmth, empathy and humor. A must-read for everyone who thinks they will live beyond fifty — or knows someone who will.” —Anne Lester, author of Your Best Financial Life 

“A pleasure to read, The Second Fifty is as wise as it is practical, helping us reclaim our sense of agency and possibility in the second half of life. As individuals and as an aging society, this is the book we didn’t know we needed.” —Ai-jen Poo, executive director of Caring Across Generations